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Who were the primary targets of the inquisitions and what was their fate?

Maximo Redon

The Spanish Inquisition was an infamous period of religious persecution that began in 1478 and lasted for over 350 years. It was established by Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain as a means to punish those who had converted to Christianity but were suspected of secretly maintaining their former religious beliefs. The primary targets of the Inquisition were Jews, Muslims, and conversos (Jewish and Muslim converts to Christianity).

The Inquisition used a variety of methods to identify suspects, including anonymous accusations, interrogation, and torture. Those who were found guilty of heresy were typically punished by being burned at the stake or forced to wear a yellow garment and perform menial tasks, such as cleaning the streets.

However, the actual number of people who were persecuted during the Inquisition is difficult to determine. Estimates vary widely, but some historians believe that tens of thousands of people may have been accused, tortured, and killed during the centuries that the Inquisition was in effect.

It is worth noting that the Inquisition was not limited to Spain. Similar practices were adopted in other Catholic countries, such as Portugal, Italy, and France. Moreover, other religious groups also employed inquisitions to suppress dissent, including the Protestant Reformation, which saw the trial and execution of many Catholics accused of heresy.

In summary, the primary targets of the Inquisition were those who were suspected of secretly practicing their former religious beliefs, including Jews, Muslims, and conversos. The Inquisition employed a range of tactics, including anonymous accusations, interrogation, and torture, to identify and punish heretics. Tens of thousands of people may have been accused, tortured, and killed during the centuries that the Inquisition was in place, and similar practices were adopted in other Catholic countries and religious groups.